What do you think?
Rate this book
Love at First Light: A Pride & Prejudice Novella
A love that began at dawn.
When Elizabeth Bennet demands satisfaction for an insult, she never expects Fitzwilliam Darcy to accept. But the proud master of Pemberley arrives at first light with his honor on the line. What follows is the most unconventional courtship in Meryton's history.
Darcy’s method? Nine clues that reveal a side of him Elizabeth never imagined—vulnerable, witty, and utterly captivating. With each illustration, her anger transforms into something far more fascination.
But when a charming stranger spreads lies designed to destroy them, Elizabeth must believe the compelling evidence provided by the stranger or trust the man whose honor she witnessed at first light—the man who has quietly, devastatingly, won her heart.
After all, the most important battles are won at dawn—when you can finally see clearly.
A novella-length variation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice for readers who love unconventional courtships, slow-burn romance, and a hero who falls first—and hardest.
When Elizabeth Bennet demands satisfaction for an insult, she never expects Fitzwilliam Darcy to accept. But the proud master of Pemberley arrives at first light with his honor on the line. What follows is the most unconventional courtship in Meryton's history.
Darcy’s method? Nine clues that reveal a side of him Elizabeth never imagined—vulnerable, witty, and utterly captivating. With each illustration, her anger transforms into something far more fascination.
But when a charming stranger spreads lies designed to destroy them, Elizabeth must believe the compelling evidence provided by the stranger or trust the man whose honor she witnessed at first light—the man who has quietly, devastatingly, won her heart.
After all, the most important battles are won at dawn—when you can finally see clearly.
A novella-length variation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice for readers who love unconventional courtships, slow-burn romance, and a hero who falls first—and hardest.
140 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 6, 2025
45 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
January 11, 2026
When Elizabeth Calls Him Out—and Darcy Falls Hard
“I demand satisfaction, sir. Tomorrow morning at dawn. The field east of Netherfield Park. Bring your second. My father shall act as my second if I can keep him from injuring you first.” —quote from book
This review opening alone tells you this is not your usual premise, and Christie Capps (J. Dawn King) makes every moment of it an absolute delight. I loved this novella. Darcy getting called out by Elizabeth after he insults her at the Meryton assembly made for a fabulous page-turning twist.
I always love it when Darcy is given a particular talent like playing an instrument or, as in this case, he is an artist who cleverly puts his talent to use in wooing Elizabeth. The whole notion of Darcy offering Elizabeth nine clues—little pieces of himself sketched out for her discovery leaves you anticipating the next as much as she, and it turns what could have been a simple apology into a thoughtful, romantic courtship. This Darcy falls hard and honestly, and you feel it in every introspection or utterance said aloud, and every artistic illustration he offers her. Darcy as an artist? Yes, please.
And Elizabeth’s journey—from fury to satisfaction to confusion to something warmer—it all feels believable and fulfilling without ever dragging. There is a chapter of mild angst when Wickham shows up but it is followed by a most romantic conclusion.
Christie Capps always delivers strong dialogue and endearing romances, and this one is no exception. If you enjoy an unconventional beginning, an almost instant attraction, and a Darcy whose heart shows through in pencil and ink, this novella is a must for your Capps/King collection. It won’t be complete without it. Trust me on this.
Highly recommend.
I received an arc of this book, but purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
January 10, 2026 -Audiobook
Stevie Zimmerman—Excellent as always.
“I demand satisfaction, sir. Tomorrow morning at dawn. The field east of Netherfield Park. Bring your second. My father shall act as my second if I can keep him from injuring you first.” —quote from book
This review opening alone tells you this is not your usual premise, and Christie Capps (J. Dawn King) makes every moment of it an absolute delight. I loved this novella. Darcy getting called out by Elizabeth after he insults her at the Meryton assembly made for a fabulous page-turning twist.
I always love it when Darcy is given a particular talent like playing an instrument or, as in this case, he is an artist who cleverly puts his talent to use in wooing Elizabeth. The whole notion of Darcy offering Elizabeth nine clues—little pieces of himself sketched out for her discovery leaves you anticipating the next as much as she, and it turns what could have been a simple apology into a thoughtful, romantic courtship. This Darcy falls hard and honestly, and you feel it in every introspection or utterance said aloud, and every artistic illustration he offers her. Darcy as an artist? Yes, please.
And Elizabeth’s journey—from fury to satisfaction to confusion to something warmer—it all feels believable and fulfilling without ever dragging. There is a chapter of mild angst when Wickham shows up but it is followed by a most romantic conclusion.
Christie Capps always delivers strong dialogue and endearing romances, and this one is no exception. If you enjoy an unconventional beginning, an almost instant attraction, and a Darcy whose heart shows through in pencil and ink, this novella is a must for your Capps/King collection. It won’t be complete without it. Trust me on this.
Highly recommend.
I received an arc of this book, but purchased the published version for my Kindle library.
January 10, 2026 -Audiobook
Stevie Zimmerman—Excellent as always.
January 9, 2026
Great book!
I liked every character, which happens very rarely, but I had my moments with Elizabeth when I wanted to throw something at her.
I don‘t know, she needed Charlotte and Mr. Bennet as reasonable people to talk to her.
So did I believe her in love with Darcy? Not really that deep.
As for Darcy, he was absent for 2 weeks, which was unfortunate. I would have love to read a chapter from his POV with his business whatever he was doing.
Otherwise, I always enjoy the quick reads/ listen by Christie Capps and narrated by the brilliant Stevie Zimmerman. It‘s a go-to!
I liked every character, which happens very rarely, but I had my moments with Elizabeth when I wanted to throw something at her.
I don‘t know, she needed Charlotte and Mr. Bennet as reasonable people to talk to her.
So did I believe her in love with Darcy? Not really that deep.
As for Darcy, he was absent for 2 weeks, which was unfortunate. I would have love to read a chapter from his POV with his business whatever he was doing.
Otherwise, I always enjoy the quick reads/ listen by Christie Capps and narrated by the brilliant Stevie Zimmerman. It‘s a go-to!
December 12, 2025
“I demand satisfaction, sir. Tomorrow at dawn.” (quote from the book)
What an absolutely terrific premise! Right from the start, I was completely captivated and enthralled with this novella! Ms. Capps ability to be capture a scene that comes to life before your eyes is a wonder.
“Reluctant admiration, guilt, misplaced protectiveness, and wounded pride fought for dominance, leaving him in anguish.” (quote from the book)
The field at dawn was a sight to behold and Mr. Darcy, with his second, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, were flummoxed! Taken totally off guard, they were already starting off on the back foot. What a brilliant ploy!!
“Your mind, your courage, your skill set you apart. I have never met your equal.” (quote from the book)
This novella is masterful, heartwarming and utterly delicious! I highly recommend it!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
December 12, 2025
Battle of more than wits
I loved this story, these characters, this writing. It is poetic, clever, and a lovely tale that will leave you smiling with contentment. A JAFF gem that I will revisit often.
I loved this story, these characters, this writing. It is poetic, clever, and a lovely tale that will leave you smiling with contentment. A JAFF gem that I will revisit often.
January 2, 2026
5+ stars!!! I enjoyed this story! I had a smile on my face the entire time I read this story. The beginning was the best!!!!!
December 11, 2025
Status: Read December 10-11, 2025 via kindle edition
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Edition Read:
Love at First Light: A Pride & Prejudice Novella
Kindle Edition, 125 pages
Published December 6, 2025 by Quiet Mountain Press
ASIN: B0G5HCQ2SY
[ kindle unlimited ]
A love that began at dawn.
When Elizabeth Bennet demands satisfaction for an insult, she never expects Fitzwilliam Darcy to accept. But the proud master of Pemberley arrives at first light with his honor on the line. What follows is the most unconventional courtship in Meryton's history.
Darcy’s method? Nine clues that reveal a side of him Elizabeth never imagined—vulnerable, witty, and utterly captivating. With each illustration, her anger transforms into something far more dangerous: fascination.
But when a charming stranger spreads lies designed to destroy them, Elizabeth must choose: believe the compelling evidence provided by the stranger or trust the man whose honor she witnessed at first light—the man who has quietly, devastatingly, won her heart.
After all, the most important battles are won at dawn—when you can finally see clearly.
A novella-length variation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice for readers who love unconventional courtships, slow-burn romance, and a hero who falls first—and hardest.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Edition Read:
Love at First Light: A Pride & Prejudice Novella
Kindle Edition, 125 pages
Published December 6, 2025 by Quiet Mountain Press
ASIN: B0G5HCQ2SY
[ kindle unlimited ]
A love that began at dawn.
When Elizabeth Bennet demands satisfaction for an insult, she never expects Fitzwilliam Darcy to accept. But the proud master of Pemberley arrives at first light with his honor on the line. What follows is the most unconventional courtship in Meryton's history.
Darcy’s method? Nine clues that reveal a side of him Elizabeth never imagined—vulnerable, witty, and utterly captivating. With each illustration, her anger transforms into something far more dangerous: fascination.
But when a charming stranger spreads lies designed to destroy them, Elizabeth must choose: believe the compelling evidence provided by the stranger or trust the man whose honor she witnessed at first light—the man who has quietly, devastatingly, won her heart.
After all, the most important battles are won at dawn—when you can finally see clearly.
A novella-length variation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice for readers who love unconventional courtships, slow-burn romance, and a hero who falls first—and hardest.
January 24, 2026
Lovely
After Darcy's infamous insult of Elizabeth at the Meryton assembly, a furious Elizabeth challenges him to a duel to take place at dawn the next morning, including choosing "seconds." A stunned Darcy calls for Colonel Fitzwilliam to accompany him, and they arrives to find Elizabeth and her father. However, the duel will not be with swords or pistols , but a completely different kind of challenge.
What a fun, exciting, and romantic novella! We're given a swoon worthy Darcy and a courageous, intelligent, and caring Elizabeth. I only wish the book was longer because it was so entertaining. It's well written and well edited, as are all of this author's creations. I recommend it highly.
After Darcy's infamous insult of Elizabeth at the Meryton assembly, a furious Elizabeth challenges him to a duel to take place at dawn the next morning, including choosing "seconds." A stunned Darcy calls for Colonel Fitzwilliam to accompany him, and they arrives to find Elizabeth and her father. However, the duel will not be with swords or pistols , but a completely different kind of challenge.
What a fun, exciting, and romantic novella! We're given a swoon worthy Darcy and a courageous, intelligent, and caring Elizabeth. I only wish the book was longer because it was so entertaining. It's well written and well edited, as are all of this author's creations. I recommend it highly.
December 16, 2025
Really enjoyable read.
December 16, 2025
Elizabeth has an unusual reaction to Darcy's insult at the Meryton assembly. She challenges him to a duel at dawn. It was easy to see where this was going, but it was funny anyway, especially when Darcy summons Richard from Matlock to be his second. In contrast to most P&P variations, Darcy has no reservations at all about marrying Elizabeth. The title of this novella is perfect. As he often does, Wickham provides the angst in the story. However, I questioned how he knew so much about Elizabeth's character and relationship to Darcy, without ever having met her.
This is an intelligent novella, clever, with great dialogue and an especially swoony Darcy. 4.5 stars
This is an intelligent novella, clever, with great dialogue and an especially swoony Darcy. 4.5 stars
January 10, 2026
cute
I genuinely loved this variation. Even though it was quick it still felt like ODC had time to get to know each other and based off a very eye opening experience for both of them where they learned things about themselves and become better people. I liked this Darcy and throwing off what he feels is duty and deciding that Elizabeth is the woman he wants. I enjoyed their interactions and Darcy’s set down of miss bingley. Finally! Their stay at netherfield truly provided a basis for Elizabeth’s changed feelings which I thought was good. Overall thoroughly enjoyed this one. There is a small matter of wickham and I do still think Elizabeth was too accepting at first to his lies but Christie did a good job of her internal conflict and ultimately the ball scenes were amazing and well done.
I genuinely loved this variation. Even though it was quick it still felt like ODC had time to get to know each other and based off a very eye opening experience for both of them where they learned things about themselves and become better people. I liked this Darcy and throwing off what he feels is duty and deciding that Elizabeth is the woman he wants. I enjoyed their interactions and Darcy’s set down of miss bingley. Finally! Their stay at netherfield truly provided a basis for Elizabeth’s changed feelings which I thought was good. Overall thoroughly enjoyed this one. There is a small matter of wickham and I do still think Elizabeth was too accepting at first to his lies but Christie did a good job of her internal conflict and ultimately the ball scenes were amazing and well done.
December 12, 2025
genuinely lovely
Clean, low angst, quick read. What an unusual plot line(chess, redemption, standing up for honor) but used in a very effective manner esp tying it into the HEA—& the nine 9️⃣ pieces (read it!) was inspired. Lizzy a spitfire supported by her Papa, if not by her mama & calls FD out on his bad behavior. Darcy was proven to be incredibly romantic despite being a jerk at the Assembly & I loved reading how they both grew into their relationship in every single page. Wickham is evil but honestly, here he’s especially insidious & didn’t get his comeuppance but didn’t win either. Def recommend all JAFF age groups & i will read again. TY Ms Capps
Clean, low angst, quick read. What an unusual plot line(chess, redemption, standing up for honor) but used in a very effective manner esp tying it into the HEA—& the nine 9️⃣ pieces (read it!) was inspired. Lizzy a spitfire supported by her Papa, if not by her mama & calls FD out on his bad behavior. Darcy was proven to be incredibly romantic despite being a jerk at the Assembly & I loved reading how they both grew into their relationship in every single page. Wickham is evil but honestly, here he’s especially insidious & didn’t get his comeuppance but didn’t win either. Def recommend all JAFF age groups & i will read again. TY Ms Capps
December 16, 2025
Enthralling
What a lovely story! I loved how it was put together - the idea of the duel, the conversation about past duels between Elizabeth and her father, the preparation for the duel by Darcy, the chess games, and then all that went after!
My only complaint - I wish it were longer as I enjoyed the dynamics between Darcy and Elizabeth. The build up of the drawings, their interactions and Elizabeth learning to trust. Very beautiful!
What a lovely story! I loved how it was put together - the idea of the duel, the conversation about past duels between Elizabeth and her father, the preparation for the duel by Darcy, the chess games, and then all that went after!
My only complaint - I wish it were longer as I enjoyed the dynamics between Darcy and Elizabeth. The build up of the drawings, their interactions and Elizabeth learning to trust. Very beautiful!
January 16, 2026
A cleverly-written delightful romance
This is everything a short variation ought to be: straight to the point, filled with romantic exchanges, a determined and devoted lover and a romantic heroine worthy of being hard-won. It helps a lot that it is a variation of one of the most, if not the most, well-known/loved romantic novels in literature. This is definitely a must-read for Pride and Prejudice and JAFF lovers. One can’t say enough how satisfyingly good this is!
This is everything a short variation ought to be: straight to the point, filled with romantic exchanges, a determined and devoted lover and a romantic heroine worthy of being hard-won. It helps a lot that it is a variation of one of the most, if not the most, well-known/loved romantic novels in literature. This is definitely a must-read for Pride and Prejudice and JAFF lovers. One can’t say enough how satisfyingly good this is!
December 13, 2025
One of my favorites
This is now one of my favorite variations!! I loved the duel. Oh my gosh! It was such a fun book. I loved it. I love all of Christie Capps books. But now this might be my favorite that she has written along with "falling slowly". I bow to Christie Capps superior knowledge on writing Excellent Pride and Prejudice variations! Thank you so much! 💘 😻 💜
This is now one of my favorite variations!! I loved the duel. Oh my gosh! It was such a fun book. I loved it. I love all of Christie Capps books. But now this might be my favorite that she has written along with "falling slowly". I bow to Christie Capps superior knowledge on writing Excellent Pride and Prejudice variations! Thank you so much! 💘 😻 💜
December 13, 2025
I really loved this one 😍
From the unexpected way that they first really met,to the beautiful way he courted her and showed her he was and is an honorable and devoted man and much more. This is a D&E story that just took my heart with it. They are equals. You need to read this one definitely 😁♥️
From the unexpected way that they first really met,to the beautiful way he courted her and showed her he was and is an honorable and devoted man and much more. This is a D&E story that just took my heart with it. They are equals. You need to read this one definitely 😁♥️
December 28, 2025
So Great!
I do not know what I expected but this little novel exceeded it. I really enjoyed it and feel that anyone who loves P&P will find this “excessively diverting!” I never laughed so hard in reading a book as my reaction to what happens at First Light! Brilliant, utterly brilliant. Congratulations Ms. Capps. Such a unique creation.
I do not know what I expected but this little novel exceeded it. I really enjoyed it and feel that anyone who loves P&P will find this “excessively diverting!” I never laughed so hard in reading a book as my reaction to what happens at First Light! Brilliant, utterly brilliant. Congratulations Ms. Capps. Such a unique creation.
December 28, 2025
This is one of the Best pride and prejudice variations I have read. I liked best little drama from.
I liked best The little drama and the influence of Mr Bennett
Also how Elizabeth did not hold a 😉 belief in Mr Williams lies
I liked best The little drama and the influence of Mr Bennett
Also how Elizabeth did not hold a 😉 belief in Mr Williams lies
December 28, 2025
Charming
The clever and original story was charming and enjoyable. Good pace and well developed. I just wish it was longer.
The clever and original story was charming and enjoyable. Good pace and well developed. I just wish it was longer.
January 12, 2026
This is a very enjoyable story. Elizabeth does not walk away when Darcy insults her at the assembly. Instead she challenges him to a duel! Is this the beginning of a magical relationship, or the end?
January 27, 2026
Completely original!
This is a lovely piece of writing. The author keeps the main characters’ traits while putting them in totally unique situations and making them make wonderful changes. A story I will be sure to read again!
This is a lovely piece of writing. The author keeps the main characters’ traits while putting them in totally unique situations and making them make wonderful changes. A story I will be sure to read again!
December 26, 2025
Lyrical and a new spin
I really enjoyed this book. The pacing of the writing was rather lyrical and lovely. At the same time, this was a new spin on the P & P story that was fun.
I really enjoyed this book. The pacing of the writing was rather lyrical and lovely. At the same time, this was a new spin on the P & P story that was fun.
January 15, 2026
A delightful variation on the Darcy/Lizzie romance. If you love these characters, you will love this story.
December 24, 2025
Good, quick read
I enjoyed this book. It was relatively short so a quick read. Low angst, good character development. Great for a lazy afternoon.
I enjoyed this book. It was relatively short so a quick read. Low angst, good character development. Great for a lazy afternoon.
January 7, 2026
Challenged to a Dual! What will Darcy do?
I have loved each of Christie Capps / J Dawn King’s stories and I think this is now one of my favorites of hers! This has a fun twist that I have never seen before and it was so well done. For those looking for a swoon worthy Darcy this will fit your need. I can’t wait to read it again.
1/7/2026 AUDIOBOOK: the audiobook was released today & I quickly bought it and was very content to revisit this story so shortly after I had read it. I put aside other ones that I am reading/listening to so I can enjoy this one. The narration by Stevie Zimmerman is as always such a pleasure to listen to and one can just disappear into the story to enjoy it.
I have loved each of Christie Capps / J Dawn King’s stories and I think this is now one of my favorites of hers! This has a fun twist that I have never seen before and it was so well done. For those looking for a swoon worthy Darcy this will fit your need. I can’t wait to read it again.
1/7/2026 AUDIOBOOK: the audiobook was released today & I quickly bought it and was very content to revisit this story so shortly after I had read it. I put aside other ones that I am reading/listening to so I can enjoy this one. The narration by Stevie Zimmerman is as always such a pleasure to listen to and one can just disappear into the story to enjoy it.
January 31, 2026
Review also posted on my blog
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
This delightful novella begins at the Meryton Assembly, with Fitzwilliam Darcy making a disparaging remark about Elizabeth Bennet.
In this pride and prejudice variation, Elizabeth confronts Darcy and demands satisfaction (the pistols at dawn, bring your seconds type of satisfaction).
When Darcy faces Elizabeth on the field of combat, it is not quite what he expected.
When honour is satisfied and the duel is over, Darcy declares to his second, Colonel Fitzwilliam, that Elizabeth Bennet is the only woman for him.
From that point on Darcy courts Elizabeth, in a novel way, showing her the worthy man he is (when not putting his foot in to his mouth).
This Darcy is most definitely swoon worthy and Elizabeth is smart, witty and thoroughly captivated by him.
A pleasing variation with romance, friendship and just a dash of angst. Perfect!
Stevie Zimmerman's narration of the audiobook is excellent, as always.
https://myjaffobsession.blogspot.com/...
This delightful novella begins at the Meryton Assembly, with Fitzwilliam Darcy making a disparaging remark about Elizabeth Bennet.
In this pride and prejudice variation, Elizabeth confronts Darcy and demands satisfaction (the pistols at dawn, bring your seconds type of satisfaction).
When Darcy faces Elizabeth on the field of combat, it is not quite what he expected.
When honour is satisfied and the duel is over, Darcy declares to his second, Colonel Fitzwilliam, that Elizabeth Bennet is the only woman for him.
From that point on Darcy courts Elizabeth, in a novel way, showing her the worthy man he is (when not putting his foot in to his mouth).
This Darcy is most definitely swoon worthy and Elizabeth is smart, witty and thoroughly captivated by him.
A pleasing variation with romance, friendship and just a dash of angst. Perfect!
Stevie Zimmerman's narration of the audiobook is excellent, as always.
December 8, 2025
Written by one of my favorite authors and she doesn't disappoint with this story.
The beginning has such a clever twist! We have that insult at the Assembly. However, Elizabeth's reaction is to challenge Darcy to meet her at dawn...with his second. I am not going to divulge how that turned out so as not to SPOIL that surprise for you.
We have a second novelty: Darcy is an artist and throughout the rest of this story he uses this talent to keep Elizabeth guessing but also to court her with what is hinted at. With drawings (piece by piece) he adds to the puzzle.
Caroline Bingley has only a few lines; while Wickham is as usual with his lies about Darcy...and he almost convinces her.
The beginning has such a clever twist! We have that insult at the Assembly. However, Elizabeth's reaction is to challenge Darcy to meet her at dawn...with his second. I am not going to divulge how that turned out so as not to SPOIL that surprise for you.
We have a second novelty: Darcy is an artist and throughout the rest of this story he uses this talent to keep Elizabeth guessing but also to court her with what is hinted at. With drawings (piece by piece) he adds to the puzzle.
Caroline Bingley has only a few lines; while Wickham is as usual with his lies about Darcy...and he almost convinces her.
December 13, 2025
I am so happy to find another winner of a story from Christie Capps! I loved this story! It was very clever and romantic. I would have liked to have seen Wickham expunged from Meryton (or England), but that would be my only complaint and certainly is very minor.
There is certainly a place for longer novels, but I love to have a bunch of short stories available to reread. Christie Capps is so good at putting a lot into a novella without it seeming rushed.
There is certainly a place for longer novels, but I love to have a bunch of short stories available to reread. Christie Capps is so good at putting a lot into a novella without it seeming rushed.
January 1, 2026
I loved the beginning of this story as Elizabeth demands satisfaction from Mr. Darcy after his insult. It is too funny and Darcy has to admire her in different ways than usual. The novella is sweet and low angst excepting a bit when Wickham decides to try his hand at being a jerk. I enjoyed the story.
December 7, 2025
Luckily Darcy insulted Elizabeth!
If not, we wouldn’t have this book! I loved it from the first moment and it was easy for the heart – except for a short heart-wrenching time: you may guess who is the culprit… prepare your salts! – and Darcy was at its best 🧡. I am easily giving 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
If not, we wouldn’t have this book! I loved it from the first moment and it was easy for the heart – except for a short heart-wrenching time: you may guess who is the culprit… prepare your salts! – and Darcy was at its best 🧡. I am easily giving 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
February 4, 2026
Refreshing!
I love a good fairytale! This enchanting story showed so much ingenuity and a refreshing twist. I love that there was no pain or anguish or misunderstanding. Just a gentle meander to a happy ending.
I love a good fairytale! This enchanting story showed so much ingenuity and a refreshing twist. I love that there was no pain or anguish or misunderstanding. Just a gentle meander to a happy ending.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews